The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has continued with its annual exercise of clearing and removal of water hyacinths across jetties, terminals and routes on the State inland waterways.
In a statement signed by the GM, LASWA, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said the pegging and clearing of the water hyacinths began simultaneously at three different locations, namely Ikorodu, Badore and Badagry on Thursday with a view to extending the exercise to other areas.
He explained that the Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu had approved the clearing of all impediments hampering smooth navigation on waterways in order to ensure free flow of traffic.
With the approval, Emmanuel assured that the Agency has mobilised the required labour force and machinery to the project sites.
He added that the first phase would involve the pegging down of water hyacinths to curtail infestation across ferry channels, followed by an eventual clearing of the aquatic weed using both manual labour and weed harvesting machines.
“This effort is to mitigate the occasional damage of Boat Engines caused by the stubborn aquatic weed and to eliminate delays in travel time while promoting the use of water transport as a viable alternative that is safe, fast and secure,” he stated.
Reiterating the State Government’s commitment towards improving safety standards and procedures on the inland waterways to guarantee the safety of users, LASWA boss implored boat captains to always pilot with caution to ensure safety, especially during the current season.
